Joint implant

ABSTRACT

A joint implant adapted for use in joint surgeries. Among other things, the joint implant has an anterior cutting edge and a rotatable cutter supported by a rotatable shaft. A polyaxial adapter can be incorporated into the current joint implant. The present implant can include a rotatable shaft that has a conduit and windows.

Applicant claims priority to US Nonprovisional Patent Application—JointImplant—; Ser. No. 16/421,737; filed May 24, 2019 that claimed priorityto US Nonprovisional Patent Application entitled—Joint ArthrodesisSystem—, Ser. No. 16/097,245, filed Oct. 27, 2018 that claimed priorityto PCT Application entitled—Joint Arthrodesis System—, Serial No.PCT/US2018/025785, filed Apr. 3, 2018 that claimed priority to USprovisional Patent Application entitled—Joint Arthrodesis System—, Ser.No. 62/534,155, filed Jul. 18, 2017.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A. Field of the Invention

The present invention is a joint implant. Among other things, theimplant of the current system has a cutting edge as well as a rotatablecutter. The current implant can be provided with a rotatable shaftextending form the biocompatible construction's orifice to its bearing.Preferred embodiments of the current biocompatible construction areprovided with a polyaxial head connectable to a device for rotating therotatable shaft. Among other things, other preferred embodiments of thepresent implant include a rotatable shaft that has a conduit andwindows.

B. Description of the Previous Art

Any discussion of references cited in this Description of the PreviousArt merely summarizes the disclosures of the cited references andApplicant makes no admission that any cited reference or portion thereofis relevant prior art. Applicant reserves the right to challenge theaccuracy, relevancy and veracity of the cited references.

References that may indicate a state-of-the-art include: 1) U.S. Pat.No. 6,770,096—Bolger, et al. that discloses an interbody spinalstabilization cage and spinal stabilization method; 2) U.S. Pat. No.6,824,564—Crozet that discloses a two-part intersomatic implant; 3) U.S.Pat. No. 6,981,975—Michelson that discloses a method for inserting aspinal fusion implant having deployable bone engaging projections; 4)U.S. Pat. No. 7,594,932—Aferzon, et al. discloses an apparatus foranterior intervertebral spinal fixation and fusion; 5) U.S. Pat. No.8,366,774—Bruffey, et al. that discloses an apparatus for anteriorintervertebral spinal fixation and fusion; 6) U.S. Pat. No.8,382,843—Laurence, et al. that discloses an intervertebral implant withblades for connecting to adjacent vertebral bodies; 7) U.S. Pat. No.9,539,110—Bergey that discloses an interbody prosthetic device withcompound-arc, blade anchor; 8) US Published Patent Application No.20030187435—Bolger, et al. that an interbody spinal stabilization cageand spinal stabilization method; 9) US Published Patent Application2007011820—Liu, et al. that discloses a vertebral implant for promotingarthrodesis of the spine; 10) US Published Patent Application No.20070270961—Ferguson that discloses a spinal implant deployable withretractable barbs; 11) US Published Patent Application No.20080027550—Link, et al. that discloses a cervical intervertebral discprosthesis comprising an anti-dislocation device and instruments; 12) USPublished Patent Application No. 20140094918—Vishnubholta, et al. thatdiscloses a stand-alone interbody fixation system; 13) US PublishedPatent Application No. 20140114421—Titan Spine, LLC that discloses aninterbody spinal implant having a roughened surface topography; 14) USPublished Patent Application No. 20140121773—Patel, et al. thatdiscloses a stand-alone interbody fixation system; 15) US PublishedPatent Application No. 20150265416—Aferzon, et al. that discloses anapparatus for anterior intervertebral spinal fixation and fusion; 16) USPublished Patent Application No. 20160374831—Duffield, et al. thatdiscloses an interbody fusion device and system for implantation; and17) WIPO Published Patent Application No. 2007/079021-Aferzon, et al.that discloses an apparatus for anterior intervertebral spinal fixationand fusion.

Among other things, none of the above listed references disclose abiocompatible construction for implantation into a surgically createdcavity; the biocompatible construction comprising: a) openings outwardfrom a centralized axis; b) an anterior side comprising: i) a cuttingedge; and ii) an orifice; c) a surgeon facing side comprising a bearing;d) a rotatable shaft, extending along the centralized axis, engaging theorifice and the bearing; e) first and second arms connected with theshaft; the first and second arms supporting first and second cutterscomprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of the shaft, theblades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction;and f) a polyaxial adapter attached to the rotatable shaft andconnectable to a device rotating the rotatable shaft.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The more tools or instruments inserted into a surgical field, thegreater the possibility that technique error may result in patientinjury. Due to the simplicity of the current joint arthrodesis system, anumber of surgical tools required and steps associated with performingprior state-of-the-art fusions can be eliminated. The arthrodesisprocedures, among other uses, can be performed in the cervical spine,sacroiliac joint, ankle, hand or other similar joints.

One of the currently available state-of-the art techniques for cervicalfusions is the DTRAX system. The DTRAX spinal system uses fiveinstruments, a working cannula, and numerous steps. A working cannulawith a chisel is used to breach the desired posterior facet joint. Oncein position, the chisel is removed and a broach is inserted through theworking cannula. The broach is advanced and retracted several times inorder to remove the cartilaginous end-plates. After the broach isremoved from the working cannula, a drill is inserted. After drilling iscompleted, a second rasp is placed to decorticate the posterior cortex.After the use of the second rasp is completed, the fixation device(filled with graft material) is inserted through the working cannulainto the joint. Additional graft material is then impacted behind theimplant.

Current state-of-the-art sacroiliac surgical procedures require a fusiondevice that is either inserted from a posterior or lateral approach.Applicant's understanding is: there are fusion devices for use witheither the posterior approach or the lateral approach, but the samefusion device is incapable for use with both the posterior and thelateral approaches. Many of the current sacroiliac fusion proceduresrequire the use of working cannulas, numerous broaches, rasps, drillsand other devices that tend to complicate the surgical procedure.Applicant's current joint arthrodesis system can accomplish sacroiliacfusions through either a posterior or lateral approach with fewersurgical tools and steps.

Unlike other joint implants, the present joint implant or biocompatibleconstruction includes a cutting edge and one or more rotatable cuttersincluding one or more blades connected to a rotatable shaft. Among otherthings, it is believed that the cutters can assist with thepostoperative stabilization of the joint implant. In accordance with thecurrent invention, rotation of a blade about 90 degrees allows the bladeto extend beyond the joint implant's construction and penetrate adjacentcartilage and bone. Select preferred embodiments of the currentinvention include an orifice and bearing that allow the rotatable shaftto be rotated along a centralized axis of the biocompatibleconstruction. Select preferred embodiments of the implant include apolyaxial adapter. Other embodiments of the present invention include arotatable shaft with a conduit, windows, first and second arms connectedto the rotatable shaft where the arms support cutters.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a joint implant with ananterior side having a cutting edge.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant with a rotatable shaft extending from the anterior side into thesurgeon facing side.

It is still another aspect of the present invention to provide a jointimplant with one or more rotatable cutters affixed to the shaft, whereeach cutter can include one or more blades.

Yet still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant where rotation of the rotatable cutter causes one or more of thecutters to extend beyond the framework.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant with rotatable cutters for cutting in the clockwise orcounterclockwise directions.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant with a socket and bearing adapted to engage the rotatable shaft.

It is still another aspect of the present invention to provide a jointimplant where the rotatable shaft can be detached from the joint implantwithout compromising the stability of the implant remaining in thesurgically created cavity.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide edges on thecutting arms that can assist with the removal of cartilage, exposure ofsubcortical bone and/or morselization of graft material.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant that, after insertion into the surgically created opening,provides distraction.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant that after insertion into the posterior cervical facet joint,the distraction can indirectly provide some neuroforaminaldecompression.

It is still another aspect of the present invention to provide a jointimplant with a framework or biocompatible construction that can lessenany joint implant subsidence.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a jointimplant that includes surface treatments. Surface treatments can improvefixation of the joint implant, and it is believed that when the jointimplant is inserted at an angle perpendicular to the joint surfaces,surface treatments significantly improve fusion.

Yet still another aspect of the present invention is to provide arotatable shaft including a conduit and one or more windows for deliveryof biocompatible instruments, compositions or substances.

A preferred embodiment of the current invention can be described as ajoint implant comprising a biocompatible construction comprising: a) afirst trapezoidal surface comprising a first aperture therein and afirst two margins of equal length; b) a second trapezoidal surfaceopposed from the first trapezoidal surface; the second trapezoidalsurface comprising a second aperture therein and a second two margins ofequal length; c) an anterior side extending between the trapezoidalsurfaces; the anterior side comprising a cutting edge and an orificeextending through the anterior side and the cutting edge; d) a surgeonfacing side comprising a bearing; the surgeon facing side extendingbetween the trapezoidal surfaces; e) a rotatable shaft extending fromthe orifice into the bearing; f) first and second arms connected withthe rotatable shaft; the first and second arms supporting first andsecond cutters comprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of theshaft, the blades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwisedirection; and g) a polyaxial adapter, outward of the surgeon facingside, attached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a devicerotating the rotatable shaft.

Another preferred embodiment of the current invention can be describedas a joint implant comprising a biocompatible construction with alongitudinal axis spanning a longer dimension of the biocompatibleconstruction; the biocompatible construction comprising: a) openingsoutward from the longitudinal axis; b) an anterior side comprising: i) acutting edge; and ii) an orifice; c) a surgeon facing side comprising abearing; d) a rotatable shaft, extending along the longitudinal axis,engaging the orifice and the bearing; e) first and second arms connectedwith the shaft; the first and second arms supporting first and secondcutters comprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of the shaft,the blades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwisedirection; and f) a polyaxial adapter, outward of the surgeon facingside, attached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a devicerotating the rotatable shaft.

Still another preferred embodiment of the current invention can bedescribed a biocompatible construction for implantation into asurgically created cavity; the biocompatible construction comprising: a)openings outward from a centralized axis; b) an anterior sidecomprising: i) a cutting edge; and ii) an orifice; c) a surgeon facingside comprising a bearing; d) a rotatable shaft, extending along thecentralized axis, engaging the orifice and the bearing; e) first andsecond arms connected with the shaft; the first and second armssupporting first and second cutters comprising one or more blades,wherein on rotation of the shaft, the blades are adapted to cut in aclockwise or counterclockwise direction; and f) a polyaxial adapterattached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a device rotating therotatable shaft.

It is the novel and unique interaction of these simple elements whichcreates the system within the ambit of the present invention. Pursuantto the Title 35 of the United States Code, select preferred embodimentsof the current invention follow. However, it is to be understood thatthe descriptions of the preferred embodiments do not limit the scope ofthe present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of the joint implant(100) utilized in the present system.

FIG. 2 is a frontal view of plate (210) seated in cross-sectional area(120) of surgeon facing side (104) of implant (100).

FIG. 3 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 4 is a frontal view cross-section of implant (100) along sectionA-A as seen from the posterior side (104).

FIG. 5 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 6 is a frontal view of a preferred embodiment of cutter (260F)shown in FIG. 5 as seen from the anterior side of implant (100).

FIG. 7 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of cutting edge (300)of implant (100).

FIG. 8 is a lateral view as seen from side (108B) with lateral sides(108A-D) of implant (100) cut away.

FIG. 9 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 10 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 11 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100)where cutters (260F, 260S) are capable of being rotated 360 degreesabout longitudinal axis X-X.

FIG. 12 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100)where cutters (260F, 260S) are capable of being rotated 360 degreesabout longitudinal axis X-X.

FIG. 13 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100)where cutters (260F, 260S) extend beyond opening (110).

FIG. 14 is a top planar view of section B-B of FIG. 13, where cutters(260F, 260S) of implant (100) do not extend beyond opening (110).

FIG. 15 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100)where cutters (260F, 260S) extend beyond opening (110).

FIG. 16 is a top planar view of section B-B of FIG. 15, where cutters(260F, 260S) of implant (100) do not extend beyond opening (110).

FIG. 17 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 18 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).

FIG. 19 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes barbs.

FIG. 20 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes surface treatments.

FIG. 21 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of joint implant(100).

FIG. 22 is a perspective of another preferred embodiment of jointimplant (100) without the polyaxial adapter (480).

FIG. 23 is a perspective of another preferred embodiment of jointimplant (100).

FIG. 24 is a perspective of another preferred embodiment of jointimplant (100) that includes surface treatments.

FIG. 25 is a perspective of another preferred embodiment of jointimplant (100) that includes surface treatments.

FIG. 26 is a perspective of the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2showing second trapezoidal surface (460).

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Although the disclosure hereof is detailed to enable those skilled inthe art to practice the invention, the embodiments published hereinmerely exemplify the present invention. As used herein, with respect tothe joint implant or biocompatible construction: 1) “anterior” of thejoint implant means the side of the implant most distant from thesurgeon and 2) “posterior or surgeon-facing side” of the joint implantmeans the side of the implant nearest the surgeon.

In the most general sense, the present invention is a joint arthrodesissystem where an implant is surgically inserted into or across a jointspace. The current implant can be useful for surgeries that can assistin stabilizing injured, deformed and or degenerative joints. Preferredembodiments of the current invention can be employed with ankle,cervical, hand, sacroiliac or other orthopaedic procedures. It appearsthat the present biocompatible construction is particularly useful forposterior cervical fusions and sacroiliac joint fusions. However, thecurrent invention can also be used to fuse the tibia to the talus, thetalus to the calcaneus, and metacarpals to the phalanges.

Preferred embodiments of the current joint implants can be manufacturedof titanium alloys, stainless steel, non-resorbable polymers or anyother composition acceptable in the art. Meeting a long felt butunfilled need in the orthopaedic surgical arts, the novel and uniquestructures of the present implant allow the surgical team to, amongother things, simplify previous procedures.

The present invention has a cutting edge and a rotatable cutterincluding one or more blades. The cutting edge of the implant'sbiocompatible composition is capable of dissecting through adipose,muscle and/or joint capsule tissues. The rotatable cutter of the implantis capable of cutting cartilage and bone and can be associated with thecreation of the surgical cavity. Further, the rotatable cutter canmorselize bone in preparation for fusion. The combination of the cuttingedge(s) and rotatable cutter of the current joint implant meet long feltbut unfilled needs in the orthopedic surgical arts: among other things,these novel and unique structures allow the surgeon to simplify theprevious operating procedures utilized for posterior cervical,sacroiliac, and other joint fusions.

Devices that insert biocompatible, osteogenic and/or other substancesinto the interior volume of the implant can be used with the presentinvention. The current joint implant is also compatible with flexibledrills, fiber optics, vacuums, one or more cannulas and one or moredevices for inserting the joint implant. Combinations of one or more ofthe before identified ancillary devices and the current joint implantcan assist with the creation and healing of the surgical wound.

Openings of the current joint implant increase the probability of theosteogenic materials and/or arthrodesis accelerating substancesprocuring a blood supply. And it is believed that increasing the bloodsupply to the osteogenic materials held by the joint implant or implantincreases the probability of successful fusion. Introduction ofosteogenic and other substances into the implant can hasten the healingof the surgical wound.

Openings of the current joint implant increase the probability of theosteogenic materials and/or arthrodesis accelerating substancesprocuring a blood supply. And it is believed that increasing the bloodsupply to the osteogenic materials held by the joint implant or implantincreases the probability of successful fusion. Introduction ofosteogenic and other biocompatible substances into the implant canhasten the healing of the surgical wound.

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of the joint implant(100) utilized in the present system. Joint implant or implant (100) hasa framework that includes an anterior side (102), surgeon facing orposterior side (104) and a plurality of sides (108A-D). Sides (108A-D)are provided with opening (110) that, among other things, allows theimplant's blades to rotate. When surgical parameters require, osteogenicand/or other biocompatible substances can also be placed into theinternal volume of implant (100).

With respect to this application, the longitudinal axis of joint implant(100) is measured along axis X-X. Axis X-X can correspond with shaft(240) or in some preferred embodiments shaft (240) can be offset fromaxis X-X. Width of implant (100) is measured along axis Y-Y or an axisparallel to axis Y-Y shown in FIG. 1. Height of joint implant ismeasured along axis Z-Z or an axis parallel to axis Z-Z of the jointimplant's framework.

Within the scope of the current invention, select embodiments of implant(100) have a length greater than a width. In select preferredembodiments, the width of implant (100) is greater than the height ofimplant (100). In other preferred embodiments of implant (100), theheight of implant (100) is greater than the width of implant (100). Theinward sides of anterior side (102), posterior side (104) and sides(108A-D) facing longitudinal axis X-X create an available inner volumeof implant (100) which can receive osteogenic as well as othersubstances.

Sides (108A-108D) are positioned outward from joint implant's (100)longitudinal axis X-X. Select preferred embodiments of implant (100) areprovided with a cross-section distant from anterior side (102) that hasa greater cross-sectional area than the anterior side (102). Asdisclosed herein, cross-sections are determined perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis X-X of the implant's framework. Anterior side (102) ofimplant (100) is provided with cutting edge (300) as will be morespecifically enabled below. In some preferred embodiments, cutting edge(300) can be integral with anterior side (102) of joint implant (100).Attached to shaft (240) are arms (262F, 262S) supporting cutters (260F,260S). Although as shown in FIG. 1, cutters (260F, 260S) are supportedby two arms (262F, 262S), in select preferred embodiments, cutters(260F, 260S) can be supported by a single arm (262F, 262S).Additionally, some preferred embodiments of cutters (260F, 260S) can beprovided with one or more sharp edges (264F, 264S) that can assistcutters (260F, 260S) with the remove cartilage, expose subcortical boneand/or morselize graft material.

Posterior side (104) of implant (100) includes cross-sectional area(120). Preferred embodiments of joint implant (100) can be provided withplate (210) where at least a portion the plate (210) is perpendicular tolongitudinal axis X-X. Plate (210) is seated within cross-sectional area(120) of surgeon facing side (104) and affixed to implant (100).Preferred embodiments of plate (210) are provided with one or moreapertures (220) that can be utilized with one or more tools associatedwith the surgery.

FIG. 2 is a frontal view of plate (210) seated in cross-sectional area(120) of surgeon facing side (104) of implant (100). As shown,cross-sectional area is provided with a plurality of openings (220).

FIG. 3 is a top view of implant (100), where implant is shown in itssubcutaneous surgical wound creation mode. Shaft (240) is connected withanterior end (102) and posterior side (104) in any manner acceptable inthe art. Proximate shaft (240) is opening (110) and sides (108A-108D).First arms (262F) attach first cutter (260F) to shaft (240). Second arms(262S) attach second cutter (260S) to shaft (240). Cutters (260F and260S) can be provided with blades that cut in both the clockwise andcounterclockwise directions when shaft (240) is rotated. Side (108B) isprovided with recess (266F) capable of receiving cutter (260F). Side(108D) is provided with recess (266S) capable of receiving cutter(260S). As shown in FIG. 3, recess (266F) is located on the superiorside of lengthwise side (108B) and recess (266S) is positioned on theinferior side of side (108D).

FIG. 4 is a frontal view cross-section of implant (100) along sectionA-A as seen from the posterior side (104). Cutter (260F) is received inrecess (266F) of lateral side (108B) and arms (262F) attach cutter(260F) to shaft (240). Cutter (260S) is received in recess (266S) oflateral side (108D) and arms (262S) attach cutter (260S) to shaft (240).Within the scope of the current invention, cutters (260F, 260S) can besupported by a single arm (262F, 262S). And when surgical parametersrequire, implant (100) is engineered with only a single cutter (260F).

FIG. 5 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100).Shaft (240) extends from cutting edge (300) toward surgeon facing side(104) of implant (100). As shown in FIG. 5, shaft (240) has rotatablearms (262F, 262S) carrying cutters (260F, 260S) such that rotation ofshaft (240) extends cutter (260F) beyond lateral side (108C) and cutter(260S) beyond lateral side (108A) of implant (100).

FIG. 6 is a frontal view of a preferred embodiment of cutter (260F)shown in FIG. 5 as seen from the anterior side of implant (100). Cutter(260F) is provided with first and second cutting blades (268F, 268S)that allow cutter (260F) to cut in both the clockwise andcounterclockwise directions. Depending on engineering parameters cutters(260F, 260S) can be equipped with one or more cutting blades. Along withthe cutting function of cutters (260F, 260S), near the conclusion of thesurgical procedure, cutting blades (268F, 268S) can be rotated to cutinto bone so that cutters (260F, 260S) further anchor the implant (100)within the joint space.

FIG. 7 is a perspective of cutting edge (300) of implant (100). Cuttingedge (300) can be integral with implant (100) or cutting edge (300) canbe manufactured as an interchangeable fitting for implant (100). Withinthe ambit of the current joint arthrodesis system, cutting edges (300)are capable of dissecting through adipose, muscle and/or joint capsuletissues.

FIG. 8 is a lateral view as seen from side (108B) with sides (108A-D) ofimplant (100) cut away. Plate (210) includes aperture (220) capable ofreceiving hand tool (360). Hand tool (360) includes handle (362) andstem (364) that extends from handle (362). Shaft (240) includesreceptacle (244) for reciprocating with stem (364) of hand tool (360).Interaction between stem (364) and receptacle (244) allows hand tool(360) to rotate cutters (260F, 260S) in both clockwise andcounterclockwise directions. In select preferred embodiments receptacle(244) can extend the entire length of (240) for allowing ingress andegress of surgical appliances and instruments from the surgical field,e.g., wires, cannulas, vacuum tubes, fiber optics, etc.

FIG. 9 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatdepicts cutting edge (300), rotatable cutters (260F, 260S) and opening(110) of implant (100). As shown, barbs (280) extend away from surfacesof lengthwise sides (108B, 108C, 108D). It is believed that barbs (280)can assist in deterring movement of implant (100) within the jointspace.

FIG. 10 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatdepicts cutting edge (300), rotatable cutters (260F, 260S) and opening(110) of implant (100). In the FIG. 10 embodiment, surfaces of sides(108B, 108C, 108D) are provided with micropores (290) of variousvolumes. It is believed that surface micropores (290) can assist withlong term fixation of the implant by allowing more bone ingrowth intothe implant. In accordance with the FIG. 10 preferred embodiment ofspinal implant (100), micropores (290) are generated by surfacetreatments to at least a portion of surfaces of sides (108B, 108C,108D). Micropores (290) can be created by abrasive, chemical or lasermeans.

FIG. 11 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100)where cutters (260F, 260S) are capable of being rotated 360 degreesabout longitudinal axis X-X.

FIG. 12 is another perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant(100) where cutters (260F, 260S) are capable of being rotated 360degrees about longitudinal axis X-X.

As measured along longitudinal axis X-X of implant's (100) framework,preferred embodiments are provided with cutting edge (300) that can beup to about 3 millimeters in length. The length of implant (100),including cutting edge (300) can be from about 6 millimeters to about 50millimeters. Cross-sectional widths of cutting edge (300) can range fromabout 2 millimeters² to about 18 millimeters². Cross-sectional widths ofimplant (100), other than cutting edge (300) can range from about 8millimeters² to about 45 millimeters².

With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a preferred embodiment of implant(100) is enabled. Implant (100) is provided with a biocompatibleconstruction including a longitudinal axis X-X that can be measured in acoexisting or parallel direction of a longest dimension of thebiocompatible construction. In selected preferred embodiments, whenengineering parameters require, longitudinal axis X-X can be offset fromcenter. Superior opening (110) and opposed inferior opening (not shownin FIG. 13) are positioned outward from implant's longitudinal axis X-X.

Implant (100) includes anterior side (102), posterior or surgeon facingside (104) and lateral sides (108B, 108D) extending between anteriorside (102) and surgeon facing side (104). Anterior side (102) of implant(100) is provided with cutting edge (300) on the outward face ofanterior side (102) and socket (330) on the inward face of anterior side(102). Surgeon facing side (104) is provided with a bearing (180) and atleast one connector (390) adapted to engage an insertion device (400).In the FIGS. 13 and 14 preferred embodiment of implant (100), surgeonfacing side (104) is provided with gaps (182F, 182S) creating pathway(190) through bearing (180) of posterior side (104).

As shown, rotatable shaft (240) extends along longitudinal axis X-X fromanterior socket (330) through bearing (180). However, in other preferredembodiments, rotatable shaft (240) can contact bearing (180) withoutextending through bearing (180). Arms (262F, 262S) are connected torotatable shaft (240) and support cutters (260F, 260S). Blades (268F,268S) associated with cutters (260F, 260S) are adapted to cut whenrotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when shaft (240) isrotated. Sharp edges (264F, 264S) of arms (262F, 262S) can be adapted toremove cartilage, expose subcortical bone and/or morselize graftmaterial. Tool (360) can be used to rotate shaft (240). In selectpreferred embodiments anterior side (102) is of lesser cross-sectionalarea than surgeon facing side (104).

Regarding the preferred embodiment of the current implant enabled inFIGS. 13 and 2, when surgical conditions require shaft (240) can bemoved longitudinally along axis X-X and shaft (240) can bedetached/reattached from socket (330). When medically required, rotationof shaft (240) positions arms (262F, 262S) such that shaft (240) can bedetached from socket (330) and arms (262F, 262S) can be pulled throughpathway (190).

With a view toward to FIGS. 13 and 14 and within the scope of thecurrent invention, preferred embodiments of joint implant (100) can havea length greater than a width. In select preferred embodiments, thewidth of joint implant (100) is greater than the height of joint implant(100). In other preferred embodiments of joint implant (100), the heightof implant (100) is greater than the width of joint implant (100). Theinward sides of anterior side (102), posterior side (104) and lengthwisesides (108B and 108D) facing longitudinal axis X-X create an availableinner volume of implant (100) which can receive osteogenic as well asother substances.

As measured along longitudinal axis X-X of implant's (100) biocompatibleconstruction, preferred embodiments are provided with cutting edge (300)that can be up to about 3 millimeters in length. The length of implant(100), including cutting edge (300) can be from about 6 millimeters toabout 50 millimeters. Cross-sectional widths of cutting edge (300) canrange from about 2 millimeters² to about 18 millimeters².Cross-sectional widths of implant (100), other than cutting edge (300)can range from about 8 millimeters² to about 45 millimeters².

With respect to this application and in view FIGS. 13 and 14, thelongitudinal axis of joint implant (100) is measured along axis X-X.Axis X-X can correspond with shaft (240) or in some preferredembodiments, shaft (240) can be offset from axis X-X. Width of implant(100) is measured along axis Y-Y or an axis parallel to axis Y-Y shownin FIG. 13. Height of joint implant is measured along axis Z-Z or anaxis parallel to axis Z-Z of the joint implant's biocompatibleconstruction.

FIG. 15 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes barbs.

FIG. 16 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes surface treatments.

With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, a preferred embodiment of implant(100) is enabled. Implant (100) is provided with a biocompatibleconstruction including a longitudinal axis X-X that can be measured in acoexisting or parallel direction of a longest dimension of thebiocompatible construction. In selected preferred embodiments, whenengineering parameters require, longitudinal axis X-X can be offset fromcenter.

Implant (100) is provided with first trapezoidal surface (450) andopposed trapezoidal surface (460). First trapezoidal surface (450)includes aperture (452) and two margins (454, 456) of equal length.Second trapezoidal surface (460) includes aperture (462) and two margins(464, 466) of equal length. Implant (100) also includes anterior side(102), posterior or surgeon facing side (104) and lateral sides (108B,108D) extending between anterior side (102) and surgeon facing side(104). Anterior side (102) and surgeon facing side (104) extend betweenfirst trapezoidal surface (450) and second trapezoidal surface (460).Anterior side (102) of implant (100) is provided with cutting edge (300)on the outward face of anterior side (102).

Orifice (470) extends through cutting edge (300) and anterior side(102). Among other things, orifice (470) allows access of a guide wire(not shown in FIGS. 17-18) when medically required. Other preferredembodiments of the current invention do not include orifice (470).Surgeon facing side (104) is provided with a bearing (180) and at leastone connector (390) adapted to engage an insertion device (not shown inFIGS. 17 and 18).

As shown, rotatable shaft (240) extends along longitudinal axis X-X fromorifice (470) into bearing (180). However, in other preferredembodiments, rotatable shaft (240) can contact bearing (180) and extendthrough bearing (180).

Rotatable shaft (240) includes conduit (242) extending through thelength of shaft (240). Conduit (242) is defined by the inward face (246)of shaft's (240) cylindrical wall (244). One or more windows (248) arepositioned in cylindrical wall (240). Each window (248) is adapted toexpose conduit (242) the surgical created cavity external from jointimplant (100). Conduit (242) can carry one or more substances thatdiffuse through windows (240) into the surround surgically createdcavity (not shown in FIGS. 17 and 18).

Arms (262F, 262S) are connected to rotatable shaft (240) and supportcutters (260F, 260S). Blades (268F, 268S) associated with cutters (260F,260S) are adapted to cut when rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwisedirection when shaft (240) is rotated. Sharp edges (264F, 264S) of arms(262F, 262S) can be adapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical boneand/or morselize graft material. Tool (360) as shown in FIG. 14 can beused to rotate shaft (240). In select preferred embodiments anteriorside (102) is of lesser cross-sectional area than surgeon facing side(104).

With a view toward to FIGS. 17 and 18 and within the scope of thecurrent invention, preferred embodiments of joint implant (100) can havea length greater than a width. In select preferred embodiments, thewidth of joint implant (100) is greater than the height of joint implant(100). In other preferred embodiments of joint implant (100), the heightof implant (100) is greater than the width of joint implant (100). Theinward sides of anterior side (102), posterior side (104) and margins(454, 456, 464, 466) facing longitudinal axis X-X create an availableinner volume of implant (100) which can receive osteogenic as well asother substances.

As measured along longitudinal axis X-X of implant's (100) biocompatibleconstruction, preferred embodiments are provided with cutting edge (300)that can be up to about 3 millimeters in length. The length of implant(100), including cutting edge (300) can be from about 6 millimeters toabout 50 millimeters. Cross-sectional widths of cutting edge (300) canrange from about 2 millimeters² to about 18 millimeters².Cross-sectional widths of implant (100), other than cutting edge (300)can range from about 8 millimeters² to about 45 millimeters².

With respect to this application and in view FIGS. 17 and 18, thelongitudinal axis of joint implant (100) is measured along axis X-X.Axis X-X can correspond with shaft (240) or in some preferredembodiments, shaft (240) can be offset from axis X-X. Width of implant(100) is measured along axis Y-Y or an axis parallel to axis Y-Y shownin FIGS. 17 and 18. Height of joint implant is measured along axis Z-Zor an axis parallel to axis Z-Z of the joint implant's biocompatibleconstruction.

FIG. 19 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes barbs.

FIG. 20 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of implant (100) thatincludes surface treatments.

Within the scope of the current invention, surface treatments caninclude barbs (280), micropores (290) or metal or abrasive particlesincorporated into or onto the biocompatible composition.

With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, a preferred embodiment of implant(100) is enabled. Implant (100) is provided with a biocompatibleconstruction including a centralized axis X-X. In select preferredembodiments, centralized axis X-X is a longitudinal axis X-X that can bemeasured in a coexisting or parallel direction of a longest dimension ofthe biocompatible construction. In selected preferred embodiments, whenengineering parameters require, centralized axis X-X can be offset fromcenter. First lateral opening (110) and opposed second opening (notshown in FIG. 21) are positioned outward from implant's longitudinalaxis X-X.

Biocompatible construction (100) includes anterior side (102), posterioror surgeon facing side (104) and lateral sides (108B, 108D) extendingbetween anterior side (102) and surgeon facing side (104). Anterior side(102) of implant (100) is provided with cutting edge (300) on theoutward face of anterior side (102) and orifice (470) extending throughanterior side (102). Surgeon facing side (104) is provided with abearing (180) and at least one connector (390) adapted to engage aninsertion instrument (not shown). In the FIGS. 21 and 22 preferredembodiment of implant (100), biocompatible construction has polyaxialadapter (480) attached to rotatable shaft (240). Polyaxial adapter (480)is connectable to a device (not shown) for rotating rotatable shaft(240).

As shown, rotatable shaft (240) extends along centralized axis X-X fromanterior orifice (470) and into bearing (180). Arms (262F, 262S) areconnected to rotatable shaft (240) and support cutters (260F, 260S).Blades (268F, 268S) associated with cutters (260F, 260S) are adapted tocut when rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when shaft(240) is rotated. Sharp edges (264F, 264S) of arms (262F, 262S) can beadapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical bone and/or morselizegraft material. Any device (not shown), acceptable in the art, can beused to rotate shaft (240). In select preferred embodiments anteriorside (102) is of lesser cross-sectional area than surgeon facing side(104).

With a view toward to FIGS. 21 and 22 and within the scope of thecurrent invention, preferred embodiments of joint implant (100) can havea length greater than a width. In select preferred embodiments, thewidth of joint implant or biocompatible construction (100) is greaterthan the height of joint implant (100). In other preferred embodimentsof joint implant (100), the height of implant (100) is greater than thewidth of joint implant (100). In still other preferred embodiments ofjoint (100), the width is greater than the length. The inward sides ofanterior side (102), posterior side (104) and lengthwise sides (108B and108D) facing longitudinal axis X-X create an available inner volume ofimplant (100) which can receive osteogenic as well as other substances.

Preferred embodiments of biocompatible construction can be provided withcutting edge (300) that can be up to about 30 millimeters in length. Thelength of implant (100), including cutting edge (300) can be from about6 millimeters to about 50 millimeters. Cross-sectional widths of cuttingedge (300) can range from about 12 millimeters² to about 200millimeters². Cross-sectional widths of implant (100), other thancutting edge (300) can range from about 16 millimeters² to about 320millimeters².

As shown in FIG. 23, select preferred embodiments of biocompatibleconstruction (100) have measurements associated with axis Y-Y that aregreater than measurements of biocompatible construction (100) associatedwith centralized axis X-X. With respect to FIG. 23, reference numbersare consistent with the reference numbers used for FIGS. 21, 22, 24 and25.

FIG. 24 is a perspective of a preferred embodiment of joint implant(100) that includes barbs (280).

FIG. 25 is a perspective of the preferred embodiment of implant (100)that includes surface treatments (280).

FIG. 26 is a perspective of the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 21 and 22showing second trapezoidal surface (460).

Within the scope of the current invention, surface treatments (280) canbe created by abrasive devices, chemical, laser, metal or abrasiveparticles incorporated into or onto the biocompatible composition or byother means acceptable in the art.

With reference to FIGS. 21, 22, 24-26, a preferred embodiment of implant(100) is enabled. Implant (100) is provided with a biocompatibleconstruction including a longitudinal axis X-X that can be measured in acoexisting or parallel direction of a longest dimension of thebiocompatible construction. In selected preferred embodiments, whenengineering parameters require, longitudinal axis X-X can be offset fromcenter.

Implant (100) is provided with first trapezoidal surface (450) andopposed trapezoidal surface (460). First trapezoidal surface (450)includes aperture (452) and two margins (454, 456) of equal length.Second trapezoidal surface (460) includes aperture (462) and two margins(464, 466) of equal length. Implant (100) also includes anterior side(102), posterior or surgeon facing side (104) and lateral sides (108B,108D) extending between anterior side (102) and surgeon facing side(104). Anterior side (102) and surgeon facing side (104) extend betweenfirst trapezoidal surface (450) and second trapezoidal surface (460).Anterior side (102) of implant (100) is provided with cutting edge (300)on the outward face of anterior side (102).

Orifice (470) extends through cutting edge (300) and anterior side(102). Among other things, orifice (470) allows access of a guide wire(not shown in FIGS. 24-25) when medically required. Other preferredembodiments of the current invention do not include orifice (470).Surgeon facing side (104) is provided with a bearing (180) and at leastone connector (390) adapted to engage an insertion device (not shown inFIGS. 21, 22, 24 and 25).

As shown, rotatable shaft (240) extends along longitudinal axis X-X fromorifice (470) into bearing (180). However, in other preferredembodiments, rotatable shaft (240) can contact bearing (180) and extendthrough bearing (180).

Rotatable shaft (240) includes conduit (242) extending through thelength of shaft (240). Conduit (242) is defined by the inward face (246)of shaft's (240) cylindrical wall (244). One or more windows (248) arepositioned in cylindrical wall (244) of rotatable shaft (240). Eachwindow (248) is adapted to expose conduit (242) to the surgical createdcavity external from biocompatible construction (100). Conduit (242) cancarry one or more substances that diffuse through windows (248) into thesurrounding surgically created cavity.

Arms (262F, 262S) are connected to rotatable shaft (240) and supportcutters (260F, 260S). Blades (268F, 268S) associated with cutters (260F,260S) are adapted to cut when rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwisedirection when shaft (240) is rotated. Sharp edges (264F, 264S) of arms(262F, 262S) can be adapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical boneand/or morselize graft material. In select preferred embodimentsanterior side (102) is of lesser cross-sectional area than surgeonfacing side (104).

Within the scope of the current invention, preferred embodiments ofjoint implant (100) can have a length greater than a width. In selectpreferred embodiments, the width of joint implant (100) is greater thanthe height of joint implant (100). In other preferred embodiments ofjoint implant (100), the height of implant (100) is greater than thewidth of joint implant (100). The inward sides of anterior side (102),posterior side (104) and margins (454, 456, 464, 466) facinglongitudinal axis X-X create an available inner volume of implant (100)which can receive osteogenic as well as other substances.

Select preferred embodiments of the current invention have beendisclosed and enabled as required by Title 35 of the United States Code.

What is claimed is:
 1. A joint implant comprising a biocompatible construction comprising: a) a first trapezoidal surface comprising a first aperture therein and a first two margins of equal length; b) a second trapezoidal surface opposed from the first trapezoidal surface; the second trapezoidal surface comprising a second aperture therein and a second two margins of equal length; c) an anterior side extending between the trapezoidal surfaces; the anterior side comprising a cutting edge and an orifice extending through the anterior side and the cutting edge; d) a surgeon facing side comprising a bearing; the surgeon facing side extending between the trapezoidal surfaces; e) a rotatable shaft extending from the orifice into the bearing; f) first and second arms connected with the rotatable shaft; the first and second arms supporting first and second cutters comprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of the shaft, the blades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction; and g) a polyaxial adapter, outward of the surgeon facing side, attached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a device rotating the rotatable shaft.
 2. The joint implant of claim 1, wherein the rotatable shaft comprises: a) a conduit extending through a length of the rotatable shaft; the conduit defined by an inward face of the rotatable shaft's cylindrical wall; and b) one or more windows, positioned on the cylindrical wall; each window exposing the conduit to a surgically created cavity external from the joint implant.
 3. The joint implant of claim 2 comprising one or more connectors connected to the surgeon facing side, wherein each connector is connectable to an insertion instrument.
 4. The joint implant of claim 3, wherein one or more surfaces of the biocompatible construction comprise surface treatments.
 5. The joint implant of claim 4, wherein the first and second arms comprise one or more sharp edges adapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical bone and/or morselize graft material.
 6. A joint implant comprising a biocompatible construction with a longitudinal axis spanning a longer dimension of the biocompatible construction; the biocompatible construction comprising: a) openings outward from the longitudinal axis; b) an anterior side comprising: i) a cutting edge; and ii) an orifice; c) a surgeon facing side comprising a bearing; d) a rotatable shaft, extending along the longitudinal axis, engaging the orifice and the bearing; e) first and second arms, capable of rotating in a 360 degree path, connected with the shaft; the first and second arms supporting first and second cutters comprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of the shaft, the blades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction; and f) a polyaxial adapter, outward of the surgeon facing side, attached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a device rotating the rotatable shaft.
 7. The biocompatible construction of claim 6 comprising first and second lateral sides connected with the anterior side and the surgeon facing side.
 8. The biocompatible construction of claim 1, wherein the anterior side has a lesser cross-sectional area than a cross-sectional area of the surgeon facing side.
 9. The biocompatible construction of claim 8, wherein the rotatable shaft comprises: a) a conduit defined by an inward face of the rotatable shaft's cylindrical wall; and b) one or more windows, positioned on the cylindrical wall; each window exposing the conduit to a surgically created cavity external from the biocompatible construction.
 10. The biocompatible construction of claim 9 comprising one or more connectors positioned on the surgeon facing side, wherein each connector is connectable to an insertion instrument.
 11. The biocompatible construction of claim 10, wherein the first and second arms comprise one or more sharp edges adapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical bone and/or morselize graft material.
 12. The biocompatible construction of claim 11, wherein one or more surfaces of the biocompatible construction comprise surface treatments.
 13. A biocompatible construction for implantation into a surgically created cavity; the biocompatible construction comprising: a) openings outward from a centralized axis; b) an anterior side comprising: i) a cutting edge; and ii) an orifice; c) a surgeon facing side comprising a bearing; d) a rotatable shaft, extending along the centralized axis spanning a longer dimension of the biocompatible construction, engaging the orifice and the bearing; e) first and second arms, capable of rotating in a 360 degree path, connected with the shaft; the first and second arms supporting first and second cutters comprising one or more blades, wherein on rotation of the shaft, the blades are adapted to cut in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction; and f) a polyaxial adapter attached to the rotatable shaft and connectable to a device rotating the rotatable shaft.
 14. The biocompatible construction of claim 13, wherein the rotatable shaft comprises: a) a conduit defined by an inward face of the rotatable shaft's cylindrical wall; and b) one or more windows, positioned on the cylindrical wall; each window exposing the conduit to a surgically created cavity external from the biocompatible construction.
 15. The biocompatible construction of claim 14, wherein the first and second arms comprise one or more sharp edges adapted to remove cartilage, expose subcortical bone and/or morselize graft material.
 16. The biocompatible construction of claim 15, wherein the centralized axis is a longitudinal axis.
 17. The biocompatible construction of claim 16, wherein the surgically created cavity is associated with a joint.
 18. The biocompatible construction of claim 17; the biocompatible construction comprising: a) a lesser cross-sectional area of the anterior side than a cross-sectional area of the surgeon facing side; b) a first trapezoidal surface formed by the anterior side, the surgeon facing side and a first two margins extending between the anterior side and the surgeon facing side; the first trapezoidal surface comprising a first aperture therein; and c) a second trapezoidal surface opposed from the first trapezoidal surface; the second trapezoidal surface formed by the anterior side, the surgeon facing side and a second two margins extending between the anterior side and the surgeon facing side; the second trapezoidal surface comprising a second aperture therein.
 19. The biocompatible construction of claim 18 comprising one or more connectors positioned on the surgeon facing side, wherein each connector is connectable to an insertion instrument.
 20. The biocompatible construction of claim 19, wherein one or more surfaces of the biocompatible construction comprise surface treatments. 